My birthday in Paris

When plan A for my birthday did not materailize I took matters into my own hands and found my own back door! There is a small (as in only seats 16 plus 3 bar stools, and as many as can crowd in standing) called Sybaris at 86 Rue des Archives in the Marias. It has been open 3 yrs. by young chef, Paul. He cooks 6 dishes a night and feeds the same thing to everyone. After making a reservation I stopped to let them know it was going to be my birthday and ask if they had Champaign. They didn't, but told me I could bring my own. So, on September 22nd I bought three bottles of chilled Champaign and took it with me to Sybaris. The greeter/server/friend was Miriam. My friend and I were given a fine seat and I gave Miriam the Champaign to serve to everyone at dessert. The meal was marvelous...and did I say I turned 73? When she brought the dessert it had a candle stuck in with the cheese, berries, and flower as everyone in the restaurant sang "Happy Birthday" (some in English, some in French). Then Miriam popped the corks and served Champaign all around. Many people came over to greet me in whatever English they knew. One young man told me, "Happy Birthday, Thank you, Bravo! Bravo!" We laughed alot and made many new French friends. It was my best birthday ever. So, my recipe for a birthday celebration is 1) find a small local place inhabitied by young people 2) let them know it is your birthday and 3) take Champaign for everyone.. I highly recommend Sybaris (esp. on a Friday night)